Shipping Lithium Batteries Internationally
Lithium batteries are high-risk power sources that can cause fires or explosions. They require special shipping methods to ensure they are delivered safely. Choose an experienced freight forwarder or 3PL that has experience shipping batteries and other dangerous goods.
Shipping lithium shipping lithium batteries internationally batteries internationally requires a thorough understanding of regulations, packaging standards and shipping procedures. Additionally, you must complete all the necessary documentation and labels.
Sea freight
As air freight for lithium batteries is limited, shipping them by sea is a cost-effective alternative. However, it is important to know that sea freight has different requirements than air cargo, including strict packaging and labeling. These guidelines are intended to ensure that the batteries arrive at their destination intact. They also help avoid the possibility of damage during shipping and handling.
Lithium batteries are classed as dangerous goods and must be shipped with proper documentation. This includes a hazardous goods transport appraisal report and a transportation appraisal form from a third party. In addition, the batteries must pass a UN test and a package drop test from 1.2 meters. They must also be shielded from conductive materials and surrounded by plastic that prevents movement. They must also be packed with an outer lining to protect them from impact.
Shipping lithium batteries is challenging because they contain a flammable electrolyte and are easy to overheat or ignite. They also require special packaging, labeling, and documentation. Moreover, they are expensive to ship and are vulnerable to physical damage. This is why it is essential to choose a shipping company that specializes in lithium battery shipping and can provide customs clearance and other services. Airsupply is one of these companies. They take shipping lithium batteries seriously and comply with the IATA DGR 4.2 regulations for shipping dangerous goods.
Air freight
If you need to ship lithium batteries or EV batteries internationally, air freight is a great option. This shipping method uses specialized cargo aircraft that are designed and equipped for the transport of lithium batteries. It is also highly efficient, with weekly scheduled flights that guarantee prompt delivery to your destination. It is important to understand the requirements for air shipment of lithium batteries and EV batteries before shipping them, however, as failure to follow these regulations can result in a costly fine.
Lithium battery international shipping requires proper packaging, documentation, and marking. This includes completing the IATA Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods, providing UN 38.3 test reports, and supplying Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS). These documents ensure compliance and promote safety throughout the supply chain.
In addition, your package must be marked with a lithium battery label. This label must be durable and clearly visible, and it should be affixed to the outside of the package in a prominent location. The label should state that the package contains a dangerous good and provide instructions for handling and emergency response.
The label must include the IATA DGR, IMDG Code, MSDS, and GB List of Dangerous Goods. The package must also be packed in a standard outer package stipulated in the IATA DGR. This packaging must be waterproof or use an inner lining to avoid damage during transit.
Customs clearance
With the growing demand for lithium batteries — they power our smartphones, tablets and electric cars — their international shipping is becoming more and more of a concern. As dangerous goods, they require specialized packaging and storage, as well as compliance with a long list of government regulations and carrier restrictions. Not all 3PLs and freight forwarders have the experience needed to manage this complex, expensive shipment. Failure to comply can result in expensive fines and delays in the supply chain.
The DOT recently introduced new rules to make it easier for shippers to comply with these requirements. For example, it requires that lithium batteries and products containing them pass a battery test summary before leaving the factory. This summary contains a standardized set of elements from the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria and can be signed by an authorized person.
The new rules also require that lithium batteries be shipped in a container with a specialized lining or be completely enclosed in equipment. This helps protect the batteries from damage during transportation and ensures that they are transported in a safe manner. In addition, shipments must be fully marked and labeled with their UN number international shipping solutions and proper shipping name. Additionally, they must be properly packaged and consolidated in accordance with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.
Packaging
Lithium ion batteries power everything from smart phones to electric cars, but they’re considered dangerous goods (DG) from a shipping perspective and require specialized packaging and labeling. Strict adherence to regulations is mandatory, and failure to comply can have consequences ranging from supply chain delays to government fines and high-liability accidents.
Air freighting is a preferred method for lithium battery shipments, as it offers quick transportation to international destinations. However, this option is limited to certain routes and requires the use of specialized cargo aircraft. Additionally, air freight can be more expensive than sea shipping for large shipments of lithium batteries.
The packaging for lithium ion batteries must meet a number of guidelines set by IATA and the IMO. The lithium battery package must be sealed in a container with a protective layer, and the cells must be separated from each other to prevent short circuits. The packaging should also include a waybill that lists the point of origin, destination, and carrier.
The IMDG Code requires that lithium batteries be packaged in containers that are sturdy and capable of withstanding rough handling. This is especially important when transporting batteries in bulk, as the weight of the packages can affect their stability during transport. In addition, the container must be able to protect the batteries from environmental hazards, such as rain and extreme heat.
